Overview

• On August 5, Costa suffered a cardiac arrest at Porto’s Olival training center shortly after a SportTV interview and died at 53 despite on-site defibrillator use and transfer to São João Hospital’s intensive care unit
• The Portuguese Football Federation paid tribute to his international career, recalling his 1991 U20 World Cup win, 50 senior caps and appearances at multiple World Cups and European Championships
• FC Porto’s official statement lauded Costa as a legendary captain and model of leadership whose dedication shaped the club’s identity on and off the field
• José Mourinho, who guided Costa to the 2004 Champions League title, became emotional as he described the loss of “a part of my own history” and praised his influence as a leader
• As a centre-back between 1992 and 2002, Costa helped Porto win eight league titles, the 2003 UEFA Cup and the 2004 Champions League before moving into coaching and later serving as sporting director